Few weeks back, I had a chance encounter with a young man, Isaac. He was a great reminder of how God truly works in mysterious ways. On a late ride home, around 9pm, I stopped to pick up a lone student hitching for a ride. I never stop to pick up hitchhikers for obvious reasons, but was struck by this young man, wondering what he was doing out at this time on a school night. My whole being was saying stop and make sure he gets home safe and more importantly urge him never to hitch for a ride because it can turn out bad. I stopped the car.
Isaac stepped in. Off we went. Luckily he lived only a few minutes from home. As soon as introductions were out the way, I went in with a stern warning about hitching rides and how dangerous it can be. Isaac expressed that he too was scared but that he has taken a chance. Now it was the two of us who’d taken a chance :-). 

Isaac had an assignment and needed to access to conduct some research. He could only access internet at school. He’s studying Physics, Chemistry and Biology (PCB).  

Anyway, I asked Isaac how much internet cost and he replied, “15.000.” He needed fifteen thousand Rwandan francs to get a modem. This was a lot of money for him.  

He is not alone. There are many students in his situation.

Recalling this sad reality broke my heart especially knowing that I can easily spend 15,000 on useless things like junk food I can live without, and here was a determined young man staying at school late because but couldn’t afford internet moreover he had a laptop at home.  

Isaac’s parents are back in Nyagatare. They don’t have the means to buy him internet. My eyes welled up as we drove. I was particularly moved by his determination. 

I felt challenged because I’ve come accustomed to having Internet at my finger tips. 

And so, I reached for my wallet, which on this rare occasion had enough cash. I offered 15.000 francs to Isaac to buy a modem.  I also gave him my number and told him to call anytime he needed internet. He seemed astonished by a stranger’s generosity. We said our goodbyes. I was glad I had stopped to give him a ride.

Last week Isaac and his grandma called to say thank you and to inform me he’d been going home early since our encounter.  

This warmed my heart. All I could do was to thank God for people like this young man. Hard working people who are doing everything possible to get by, to achieve, to succeed.  

I was reminded of the Bible story of talents. Isaac is one who is investing all his efforts in his education thanks to a  government scholarship, which many dream of, and I pray to God they shall be multiply ten-fold.  

For you who have all you need and don’t know what it’s like to be without necessities here’s what you need to do: 1) thank God everyday 2) never take it for granted and 3) always be ready to give to those in need – give it forward!

Thank you Isaac for the moment of Inspiration!!!